How to Modernize a Traditional Brass Chandelier

With a few simple steps, take an old brass chandelier from old, fussy and formal to functional, fun and fresh.
White Kitchen With Bright Blue Walls

White Kitchen With Bright Blue Walls

Royal blue and bright white combine in this airy kitchen for crisp look. The warm color of the countertops visually grounds the space.

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Materials Needed:

  • brass chandelier
  • painters' tape
  • can of spray primer
  • 3 cans of spray paint
  • snap-on spray paint can handle
  • sheet plastic
  • globe chandelier bulbs

Prep for Paint

Protect floor and surrounding areas with plastic sheeting. Use a damp cloth to wipe dust from chandelier, remove socket sleeves then cover sockets with painters' tape.

Cover sockets with tape

Prep for Paint

Protect floor and surrounding areas with plastic sheeting. Use a damp cloth to wipe dust from chandelier, remove socket sleeves then cover sockets with painters' tape.

Prime Surface

Shake can of spray primer for one minute then attach snap-on handle to can's top. With can six inches from surface, lightly pull spray handle back and prime chandelier using controlled pressure on handle. Prevent drips by covering areas to be painted with an even coat of primer, being careful not to spray one area for too long. Allow primer to fully dry for approximately one hour.

Apply primer to the chandelier's surface

Prime Chandelier Surface

Shake can of spray primer for one minute then attach snap-on handle to can's top. With can six inches from surface, lightly pull spray handle back and prime chandelier using controlled pressure on handle. Prevent drips by covering areas to be painted with an even coat of primer, being careful not to spray one area for too long. Allow primer to fully dry for approximately one hour.

Add Finish Coat

Shake can of spray paint for one minute, then attach spray handle to top. With can six inches from surface, lightly pull spray handle back creating controlled, overlapping strokes. Allow up to an hour for first coat to dry, then apply final coat.

Insert Globe Bulbs

Remove painters' tape from sockets, slide sleeves into place then screw in globe bulbs.

Insert Globe Bulbs

Insert Globe Bulbs

Remove painters' tape from sockets, slide sleeves into place then screw in globe bulbs.

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